A shocked walker made the horrific discovery of a drowned dog floating in the River Wensum north of Norwich.

The female Staffordshire bull terrier was found near to Hellesdon Bridge with her legs wrapped in a navy shopping trolley bag and her body swaddled in a dark green Regatta jacket, tied up by the sleeves.

The RSPCA is now appealing for information about the discovery on Tuesday morning, in a bid to track down whoever dumped the dog in the water.

RSPCA inspector Laura Sayer and officers from Norfolk Police pulled the lifeless dog after receiving a phone call from the distressed walker.

A veterinary post-mortem examination revealed that the dog was most likely to have died from drowning.

Inspector Sayer said: “This is an extremely distressing discovery and I am very anxious to find out who is responsible.

“The poor Staffie is thought to be only around five years old, and she is a light or cream colour with a distinctive dark brown/black patch over her face and ears.

“She also had an enormous swinging tumour on the left side of her belly, and was suffering with overgrown claws and a number of other medical issues.

“I suspect these may have been the reason the owner decided to dump her - but to do so in such a barbaric way is just unthinkable. I am appalled.”

“To make things worse, the vet said the tumour was benign and could have most likely been treated and removed, and the dog could have gone on to live a relatively happy life had she been taken to a vet.”

She added: “I’m appealing to anybody with any information about this dog and her owners, no matter how small, to come forward and contact me.

“They can call our inspector’s appeal line in complete confidence on 0300 123 8018, and leave me a message.”

Under the 2006 Animal Welfare Act, someone found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to an animal could face a maximum prison sentence of six months, or an unlimited fine.

To support the work of the RSPCA and help the charity continue to rescue animals in need please text LOVE to 87023 to give £3 (Text costs £3 + one standard network rate message).